Patient Education & Resources

If you have trouble sleeping, you're not alone. According to the National Sleep Foundation 40 million Americans report having sleep problems and we're all paying the price. Lack of quality sleep takes a toll on health, productivity at work, and even public safety.

Symptoms of a sleep disorder may include loud snoring or snorting, restless sleeping, excessive daytime sleepiness, restless legs and insomnia. A sleeping partner may also notice that you stop breathing for periods of time when sleeping. You may want to use the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, a screening tool to help gauge your degree of fatigue. While the tool is not meant to diagnose any particular sleep disorder, it may indicate if you should consult a physician.

Be prepared to answer questions about your health history. Try to keep a daily sleep diary for a week or two. Write down the time you go to bed, the time you wake up, and anything that seems to affect your sleep. Then your health care provider can refer you to a sleep specialist and recommend a sleep study.

Don't ignore your sleep problems. Explore our Web site to find events and health information that will help you understand the importance of sleep. You'll find resources and articles that help you learn more about sleep problems and steps you can take that can lead to better health.